What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root placed in the jawbone to support a dental prosthesis. Different treatment plans may be considered for a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth or a fully edentulous arch.
The number and position of implants are not the same for every patient. Planning takes account of oral findings, bone anatomy and the type of prosthesis to be used.
Single-Tooth Implant
When a single tooth is missing, a single-tooth implant may be considered if the neighbouring teeth and jawbone are suitable. After the healing period, an individually planned crown may be made for the implant.
Planning considers the position of the missing tooth, available bone, gum level and bite relationship.
Multiple-Implant Treatments
When several teeth are missing, an implant-supported bridge or other prosthetic options may be planned according to the position of the missing teeth and available bone.
Whether each missing tooth requires a separate implant is determined after clinical assessment.
Full-Arch Implant Treatments
In some cases where all teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing, or where existing teeth cannot be retained, full-arch implant treatment may be considered. Fixed or removable prosthetic options may be planned using an appropriate number of implants.
The number and position of implants vary according to bone anatomy, the bite relationship and the planned prosthesis.
Bone Grafting
When there is insufficient bone volume in the planned implant area, bone augmentation procedures may be considered. Bone grafting is intended to support the creation of adequate bone volume for implant planning.
The procedure may be carried out at the same appointment as implant placement or as a separate stage. The technique and healing time may vary from person to person.
Sinus Surgery (Sinus Lift)
In some cases where bone height in the back of the upper jaw is insufficient for implant placement, a sinus-floor augmentation procedure may be considered. A sinus lift is used to increase the available bone area for implant planning.
It is not required in every implant case. The need for the procedure is determined through imaging and clinical assessment.
How Is Implant Treatment Planned?
Before implant treatment, an oral and dental examination is carried out. Panoramic radiography or three-dimensional imaging may be used when required.
- Existing teeth and gums are assessed.
- Bone volume and anatomical structures in the missing-tooth area are assessed.
- The number and positions of implants are planned.
- Additional procedures such as bone grafting or sinus surgery are considered when necessary.
- The implant-supported prosthesis is included in the overall treatment plan.
After Implant Treatment
After implant placement, it is important to follow the care and review plan recommended by your dentist. Tenderness or swelling may occur during the first few days. Contact your dentist if you experience an unexpected or persistent problem.
Regular oral hygiene and periodic dental reviews are important for long-term care. More detailed post-treatment information is available on the “After Implant Treatment” page in the Information section.
You can review our information page for general care and points to consider after implant treatment.
After Implant Treatment →